Overview
This thoughtfully designed experience blends wellness exploration with adventure travel, offering both discovery and rejuvenation. ✔ Reset, enhance or establish wellness routines ✔ Find grounding through Pilates, yoga, mindfulness & journaling ✔ Join a community of like-minded people who share a passion for exploring and connecting The town: It's a gem! Have you ever walked into a restaurant, book store or yoga studio and immediately felt the warm ambiance and kindness of the people there? Maybe you felt accepted and calm or at peace? The tiny, family friendly beach town of Samara, Costa Rica encompasses this feeling.
Comfort in Nature
Eco-Villas
Ticos/Ticas (local Costa Ricans) are very in tune with nature and aim to live sustainably.
We do our part to contribute to this fantastic environmental stewardship by staying in family-owned rustic Eco-villas (they even have their own compost, which is a big deal in Costa Rica)!
You'll still sleep well on orthopedic mattresses and enjoy air conditioning.
Although you don't need it, each villa has a kitchen (which can be nice if you need a midnight snack). You'll enjoy chef prepared meals during this retreat.
The setting invites you to relax, surrounded by lush foliage and welcoming staff.
The Experience
Off the beaten path
Samara (Sam-uh-ruh) is located in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, on the Nicoya Peninsula. It is a destination for those who like a bit of adventure; there are no big hotels, resorts or big-city amenities here.
Movement Sessions
Costa Rica's nurturing tropical environment provides an excellent container to reconnect with your authentic self while cultivating inner resilience. Sessions will take place on a beautiful platform, surrounded by lush foliage and overlooking a creek (keep eyes and ears peeled for howler monkeys)! We will offer: Meditation + Journaling Sessions Pilates Myofascial Release with Massage Balls
Let's talk about food!
All food is included except for one lunch and one dinner. Your chef prepared meals will include food such as: -Tropical fruit platters -Local coffee -Gallo Pinto (traditional breakfast dish) -Acai bowl -Handmade corn tortillas -Homemade yogurt with granola & local honey -Fresh caught fish -Grilled vegetables -Coconut rice -Patacones (twice fried green plantains) -Marinated chicken breast -Stuffed bell peppers -Ceviche -Freshly baked bread -Quinoa salad -Fresh fruit smoothies -Homemade empanadas -Coconut curry ...the list goes on!! We will enjoy a large variety of delicious cuisine. You'll also get to explore the many restaurants Samara has to offer! There is a healthy balance of local food options and international cuisine (everything from wood-fired steaks to ceviche to a typical local dish with a Caribbean flare). There are several restaurants right along the beach with a Bohemian feel as well as delicious options in town. Exploring the different restaurants is definitely part of the fun here. We will be there to point you in the direction of our favorite spots! There are alcoholic and non-alcoholic welcome drinks on arrival. All other alcohol is an additional cost.
Hike to Hidden Beach
Hike through lush jungle trails and along the coastline to explore one of Samara's hidden gems - a secluded beach! You'll have time to swim, relax, and soak in the tranquility of this special spot.
Samara Farmer's Market
Wander through the vibrant Samara Farmer's Market, where the heart of the community comes alive with fresh produce, handmade crafts and artisan goods. The market is only on Saturdays, so we make sure to be there and take in the lively atmosphere!
Sea Kayaking to Isla Chora
Paddle across the shimmering turquoise waters of Samara Bay to an unspoiled island just offshore. Enjoy the white sand beach, go out for a snorkel and listen to the ocean. The paddle there is worth it!
Boat Excursion
It's whale season! We try our luck at spotting both majestic humpback whales and playful dolphins. Then, we dive into the water for a snorkeling adventure. It will be an unforgettable experience!
Digital Detox
This is your chance to recharge! Give yourself a mental refresh through connection to yourself, others and the environment around you. Research has shown us over and over again that disconnecting from our devices more often: - benefits our sleep cycles - increases positive self talk - promotes healthier eating habits - decreases anxiety & depression - leads to more productive days at work There are no rules. You choose what amount of detox works best for where you are, in your life, at this time.
Weather
Samara is in a dry tropical forest. February and March are part of the dry season in the Nicoya Peninsula. It will be sunny and warm/hot. Get ready to sweat, soak up the sun, and swim!
Getting There
You'll fly to the Liberia International Airport (LIR), which is in the northern part of Costa Rica. It's best to arrive before 2:30pm on the retreat start date to take advantage of the private shuttle to Samara! Plan to leave after 12pm on the retreat end date. The drive to Samara is 2-2.5 hours from the LIR airport. The drive is on a two-lane road, so expect to drive through small villages, be surrounded by foliage and to be away from crowded highways. Please contact us if you'd like help booking flights.
Accommodation
Bed in Bunk Room in Shared Villa (3 people per room). 1 in bottom bunk, 2 in single, lofted bunk beds.
You'll enjoy a bedroom/bathroom for you and your travel partners and will share the kitchen and villa with others. These rooms can sleep 3 people, making it perfect for a group of friends or those who don't mind sharing space. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$1,620.00/pp
Private Bed in Shared Loft Area
You will share the room, bathroom, and villa with 1 other. The beds are accessed through lighthouse style stairs. There is also a sofabed downstairs in the living room and kitchen area. There is an outside patio. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$2,480.00/pp
Private Villa- Studio (outdoor kitchen on patio)
Enjoy your own private space, complete with a full outdoor kitchen! You may add another person to the room (plan to share bed). There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$2,520.00/pp
Private Room & Shared Bathroom in Shared Villa (Main Villa)
You'll enjoy your own private bedroom and will share a bathroom, the kitchen and villa with others. You may add another person to the room (plan to share bed) for an additional cost. Please reach out for more information. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$2,580.00/pp
Private Room & Shared Bathroom in Shared Villa (NOT Main Villa)
You'll enjoy your own private bedroom and will share a bathroom, the kitchen and villa with others. You may add another person to the room (plan to share bed) for an additional cost. Please reach out for more information. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$2,580.00/pp
Private Bed in Shared Room (with upstairs covered porch)
This is an upstairs area, accessed by stairs. There is not a door on the room, and yet it lives like a bedroom as opposed to a loft. You'll have your own bed (queen) and will share the room, bathroom, and villa with up to 3 others. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$2,980.00/pp
Private Room in Shared 2 BR Villa
You'll enjoy your own private room and will share a bathroom, kitchen and villa with 1-2 others. You may add another person to the room (plan to share bed) for an additional cost. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$3,180.00/pp
Private Room & Bathroom in Shared Villa (Main Villa)
You'll enjoy your own private bedroom/bathroom and will share the kitchen and villa with others. You may add another person to the room (plan to share bed) for an additional cost. Please reach out for more information. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$3,180.00/pp
Private Upstairs Villa- 1 bedroom, outdoor deck (indoor kitchen)
Enjoy your own bedroom, bathroom, kitchen & deck. You may add another person for an additional cost (plan to share bed or utilize sofa bed. There will be chef prepared meals (you won't need the kitchen, it's simply an added feature)!
FROM$3,420.00/pp
Second Person in Private Room
Book this along with a Private Room. The photo above is an example of a bedroom.
FROM$1,880.00/pp
What's included
What's Included
5 nights accommodation in eco-villas
Chef prepared breakfasts (5), lunches (3) and dinners (4).
Transportation in a private, air-conditioned shuttle, to and from the airport in Liberia (LIR)
2 movement classes daily
Kayaking/Paddleboard excursion
Myofascial release class with massage balls
Hike to a hidden beach
Beach time (shade tents and chairs will be provided)
Travel & logistical support leading up to and during retreat
Guided morning meditation or journaling workshop (1 daily)
Access to a full kitchen in each villa
Boat Excursion
What's Not Included
Airfare to Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR)
Specialty drinks (smoothies or alcoholic beverages)
1 lunch and 1 dinner (exploring restaurants here is part of the adventure and we'll help you)
Additional excursions or experiences
Travel insurance (we have recommendations for you to explore)
Gallery
Reviews
My experience with Lindsay was unlike anything I've ever done. She truly thinks through every aspect of the adventure; from the food, to the activities, to making sure you have space and individual time as needed. She has an amazing ability to cater to the individual and make sure everyone gets the experience they desire on her trips. I cannot recommend Lindsay enough. I look forward to the next retreat with her!
Whitney S. (Custom Retreat in Mexico)FAQs
What if I want to opt out of an activity?
That's perfectly fine with us!
In fact, we applaud you for doing what feels right for you.
There’s no judgment here if you choose to sleep in or skip any activities.
Will I need to cook anything?
Absolutely not! The villas provide a kitchen and you will not need it. Some people like to have access to a refrigerator or stove, and it's an added bonus that it's there for your use (if you would like).
It would be very easy not to use the kitchen at all during this retreat!
What is the payment policy?
A 10% deposit is required to reserve your spot on the retreat.
The remaining balance is due 75 days before the retreat start date.
Please reach out if you'd like to chat about a payment plan that might work better for you.
What is your cancellation policy?
Deposits are refundable for 30 days.
If cancellation occurs more than 60 days prior to the retreat start date, you will receive a 100% refund, less the deposit.
Cancel 46-60 days prior to retreat start date and receive a 50% refund, less the deposit.
Cancel 31-45 days prior to the retreat start date and receive a 25% refund, less the deposit.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations that occur 30 or fewer days before the retreat start date.
However, we CAN apply any amount paid toward a future AWAY retreat!
What travel documents will I need?
Travel to Costa Rica currently requires a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your departure date from Costa Rica.
You will also need a printed copy of your return flight to obtain a tourist visa on arrival.
There are no COVID testing requirements to enter Costa Rica at this time.
Can my dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes! There are plenty of options for vegetarians, pescatarians, omnivores and carnivores alike.
Gluten-free diets can be accommodated as well.
What is the local currency & exchange rate?
Costa Rica’s local currency is the colon. Colones are preferred by local businesses, although U.S. Dollars are accepted. The easiest way to obtain colones is to use your debit card at the ATM machine. There are 3 ATM's in Samara.
You will be able to insert your debit card and receive colones. There will be a fee, which is associated with your bank at home. It's usually between $3 and $5 per withdrawal.
We still recommend bringing some U.S. cash as it’s best to have some cash on hand when traveling.
Check out the current exchange rate.
Will there be bugs?
Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on the entire planet. You’ll see critters that you have never seen before!
Locals keep all food inside the refrigerator to ensure that bugs do not come inside. We’ll follow suit.
This collection of villas is not very buggy, but you’ll likely find some cool insects while you’re out and about.
Is there a doctor in Samara?
Yes. For minor injuries, there is a small clinic with an English speaking male doctor and staff.
There is also a small office with an English speaking female doctor and receptionist. She offers a more holistic approach to medicine.
Samara also has an acupuncturist and pelvic floor physical therapist.
For major injuries or trauma, San Jose is the best option.
There is an International hospital there, as well as several other hospitals that will provide excellent care.
For a situation requiring evacuation from Costa Rica, Miami is the closest and best option.
Is there WIFI?
Yes. While it’s nice to unplug from the outside world, many of us have lives at home that require some communication.
We understand. There is WIFI at the Villas and at most restaurants in town or along the beach.
April is not considered the rainy season. However, if it does storm, this may cause the WIFI and power to shut down, especially in town.
There is a generator at the Villas in case of power outages.
Are vaccinations recommended or required?
You may read about the current CDC recommendations and guidelines here.
May I see a list of available activities in the area?
If you'd like to schedule one of the many activities that are offered in town, we're here to help!
Check out the noncomprehensive list below:
- Ziplining
- Surfing lessons
- Spanish lessons
- Horseback riding
- ATV tours
- Massage/spa services